Common blue  (Polyommatus icarus)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

This butterfly is found throughout Britain and occurs on most off-shore islands including the Outer Hebrides and Orkney (4). It is most numerous in the south of England and Wales and is scarce in areas at altitudes of over 300 meters, becoming absent over 500 m (4). Elsewhere, the range of this species extends throughout Europe, North Africa and in temperate parts of Asia (3).

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

Occurs in a wide range of grassy habitats where the foodplants occur. The main foodplant is common bird’s foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), although other trefoils, clovers (Trifolium) and related plants may be used (3) (5). This species tends to be found in sunny, sheltered areas, and typical habitats include downland, woodland clearings, coastal dunes, road verges, golf courses, cemeteries and occasionally gardens (4) (5).

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